With an active bayfront, long stretches of sandy beach, two lighthouses, nearby natural areas and popular visitor attractions, Newport is a favorite destination for families and sightseers. Its bayfront is home to attractions including Ripley's Believe it or Not, a wax museum and Undersea Gardens. You can browse shops and galleries, book a charter fishing trip, buy fresh seafood and watch sea lions on the docks. Just south of downtown Newport, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is a world-class attraction and home to more than 15,000 marine animals. The picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon's tallest, is only minutes away at The Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area where you will enjoy panoramic views and wildlife watching. A stairway leads to accessible tide pools below. Just north of Newport, Otter Rock is situated on the southern side of Cape Foulweather, where you can visit the dramatic Devil's Punchbowl State Natural Area.

Top Sights & Recreation:

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

The scenic headland reaches a mile into the Pacific offering panoramic views, Oregon's tallest lighthouse and access to a beautiful intertidal area. Small offshore islands offer habitat for seabirds and Harbor Seals while Gray Whales are often spotted in the waters, even during non-migratory seasons. more info

Beverly Beach State Park

Take the walkway under Highway 101 to the vast expanse of sandy beach. This easily accessible park offers hiking, fishing, picnicking and camping. A nature center with interpretive programs makes this a perfect destination for the whole family. more info

Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site

Visit the historic and restored Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, open to the public. Walking trail, picnicking, fishing and beach access are also available.

Devil's Punchbowl State Natural Area

Peer down into the sandstone cauldron when the surf is up to see waves roll into the cave opening, swirling and frothing like a devilish brew. Take in the area's panoramic views or hike the trail leading to tide pools on the north side of the punchbowl, one of several protected intertidal areas in Oregon designated as Marine Gardens. more info

South Beach State Park

A variety of facilitated activities away at South Beach State Park seasonally. Visit the Hospitality Center to rent a bike, sign up for a guided kayaking excursion or pick up a self-led, native plant hike brochure. Other park activities include horseback riding, fishing, crabbing and camping.

Other Attractions:

Oregon Coast Aquarium

Immerse yourself in marine science at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. Sea otters, sharks, puffins and jellies are just a few of the 15,000 animals that earn this attraction recognition among the best aquariums in the U.S

Oregon Undersea Gardens

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Discoveries made by Robert L. Ripley in his travels to 198 different countries. Experience an earthquake, see a real shrunken head and confront the mummy of King Tuts tomb. It’s a lot of fun…Believe It or Not!

Mariner Square

Oregon Undersea Gardens, Wax Works and Ripley's Believe It or Not.

Wax Works

Witness history as it comes alive and peer into the future. The eruption of Mount St. Helens, the disappearance of D.B. Cooper, and an actual hanging bridge are just a few of the walk-through, self-guided attraction features.